Environmental Biology, Master of Science

Employment of environmental scientists is expected to increase by 25 percent between 2006 and 2016, much faster than the average for all occupations. Source: "Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009," U.S. Department of Labor

The graduate major in Environmental Biology prepares students to work as professional biologists with a strong environmental emphasis. The application of quantitative methods and the design of field and laboratory studies are major components of this exciting program. GSU is uniquely located where urban and rural areas meet, allowing students to explore a diverse range of complex environments.

Outstanding PreparationProgram courses cover the spectrum of environmental biology from toxicology, physiology and ethology to population and community ecology, emphasizing the applied aspects of these disciplines. You are trained in the application of quantitative methods and the design of field and laboratory studies. Internships are available at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Forest Preserve District of Will County, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Brookfield Zoo and Argonne National Laboratory.

Graduates work as naturalists at county, state and national parks. Others find employment in the private sector as waste management consultants or with planning agencies as habitat assessment experts or pursue advanced degrees.